Author(s): H. B. Horlacher; U. Moricke
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Leipzig; Pleisse; Weisse Elster; Sediment; Suspended particles; Bed material; Morphology; Numerical; One dimensional; Two dimensional; Simulation; Historical development
Abstract: The City of Leipzig lies on the confluence of the rivers Weisse Elster, Pleisse and Parthe. We have evidence that efforts were made to alter the pattern of the natural river system, even as far back as 1000 years ago. Throughout the past centuries a ramified system of mill channels, diversions, outlets and flood deviation channels has been set up, which today is known as Leipzig's river system. The natural, original river beds have been in parts completely erased and, for long stretches, the rivers have been diverted to flow along mill channels and flood deviation routes. The Elster reservoir forms the central point of this river system, however, from a hydro-morphological point of view, in its present form it causes a considerable disturbance for the Weisse Elster and the Pleisse rivers. During the last decades, the disturbance in the natural sediment balance has caused enormous sediment aggregation in the Elster reservoir and upstream of its location. The Untere Pleisse, Roetha, dam authorities, who are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the Leipzig river system, are having great technical, not to mention financial problems dealing with the sediment, its removal and deposition, and have approached the Institute for Engineering Hydraulics and Hydromechanics at the Technical University of Dresden to research means for stabilising the sediment balance within the river network. The research is based on one and two dimensional hydro-dynamic numerical models, and the measurement of the concentration and transport of suspended matter and bed materials. In addition, we research the historical aspects and development of the river system in an attempt to be able to make physically justified suggestions for a complete remodelling of the network.
Year: 2003